LITCHFIELD >> The Torrington Area Parkinson’s Support Group will host its third annual “Walk in the Woods,” at White Memorial Conservation Center in Litchfield Sept. 7.

The walk raises money for the Michael J. Fox Foundation, which aims to improve treatments and find a cure for the disease. A portion of the funds raised from the walk goes back to the Torrington Area Parkinson’s Support Group to assist local residents who are affected and need help.

The walk begins at 1 p.m. and is ranges from half a mile up to 2 miles. You can pre-register or simply donate by visiting http://www.walkforpd.org.

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The non-competitve walk serves as the Torrington Area Parkinson’s Support Group’s main fundraiser. Walkers have a choice between a half-mile, one mile and two mile walk through White Memorial Conservation Center.

The walk is not only to raise funds for research but it also provides a way for people living with Parkinson’s disease to enjoy gentle exercise, said Susan Pelchat, co-organizer and a member of the support group. It serves a dual purpose for those diagnosed with Parkinson’s. The disease affects muscle movement, from walking to movement of the eyes and vocal chords, which makes staying active an important treatment.

Parkinson’s disease is a chronic and progressive movement disorder that involves the malfunction and death of vital nerve cells in the brain. As Parkinson’s progresses, the amount of dopamine produced in the brain decreases, leaving a person unable to control movement normally.

Pelchat, whose husband has Parkinson’s and Rosellen Waiveris, who has Parkinson’s herself, both stress that movement is the key to not letting the disease get you.

The walk drew about 200 participants in its first year, between those with the disease, their caregivers and supporters and raised $12,000.

Last year, more than 200 people attended the walk, raising almost $15,000.

The Walk in the Woods will have family activities, face painting and a demonstration by the Forbes Flyers.